: Initiates often wear Elekes , which are multi-colored beaded necklaces representing specific Orishas.
Followers do not have "symptoms" in a clinical sense, but initiates often display visible markers of their faith: symptoms-of-santeria
: If someone believes they have a spiritual ailment, they may seek a Limpieza (cleansing) to remove "negative energy". Cultural Misconception : Initiates often wear Elekes , which are
Santería (or Regla de Ocha ) is an African diaspora religion that developed in Cuba. It is a spiritual way of life focused on building relationships with deities known as Orishas . Common "Signs" of Practice It is a spiritual way of life focused
The term "symptoms" is occasionally used colloquially—and often incorrectly—to describe the behaviors of someone people suspect is practicing the religion in secret, or to describe the bad luck someone believes they are experiencing due to a "curse" (though Santería practitioners primarily focus on protection and wisdom).
While "Santería" is a well-documented Afro-Caribbean religion, there is no medical, psychological, or widely recognized cultural condition formally titled
